Bethlehem raises handicapped parking violations for Musikfest

View full sizeExpress-Times File PhotoParking in a handicapped spot during Musikfest will now cost violators a hefty fine.

Parking in a handicapped spot during Musikfest will now cost violators a hefty fine.

Bethlehem City Council voted Tuesday to double the fines for parking in a handicapped spot during Musikfest from $50 to $100.

Councilwoman Karen Dolan, who suggested the increased fees, said people may be more likely to park in handicapped spots when finding parking is difficult, such as during Musikfest. And people who need handicapped spots suffer the most from having to park far away, she said.

“You’re much more screwed over than anybody else who would have to walk,” she said.

Council strongly embraced Dolan’s suggestion and voted 6-0 to raise the fines. Council President Eric Evans was absent from the meeting.